Mohammad Asfour

I am a Canadian-Jordanian professional with over 20 years of international, regional, and local experience in strategy, economic development, and sustainability. I actively contribute to advancing sustainable practices across sectors such as tourism, green buildings, climate change, and renewable energy. As a Chair of Wadi, I lead efforts to promote eco system restoration, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and empowering local communities. I have spearheaded initiatives that support ecotourism in Jordan, established frameworks for sustainable consumption and production through the SwitchMed II Programme, and contributed to policy development that promotes environmental stewardship. As a former Chairman of the Jordan Green Building Council and a regional leader with the World Green Building Council, I have championed green building standards and policies, fostering industry collaboration and advocating for sustainable urban development. My work includes capacity building, strategic planning, and policy advocacy to support inclusive growth, community empowerment, and environmental protection. I am also a passionate nature photographer and co-founder of platforms showcasing Jordan’s rich cultural and natural heritage. My goal is to leverage my diverse experience to support innovative, inclusive, and environmentally responsible development in Jordan and beyond.

How did IE help you get to where you are today?

IE provided me with a transformative platform to develop my leadership, strategic thinking, and innovative problem-solving skills. The Master’s program in Positive Leadership & Strategy equipped me with a forward-thinking approach that emphasizes inclusive, participatory, and sustainable development—values that have become central to my work. The diverse academic environment at IE fostered my ability to connect ideas across sectors, promoting collaboration among communities, governments, and organizations. It also sharpened my capacity to design practical, impactful strategies that address complex challenges like climate change, urban development, and environmental conservation. Additionally, the network and global outlook I gained at IE opened doors to international projects, enabling me to work with organizations such as UNDP, UNEP, and the World Green Building Council. Ultimately, IE empowered me to lead initiatives that promote sustainable growth, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship, laying the foundation for my current leadership roles and ongoing efforts to create positive change.

In what way is your work impacting the world?

My work is making a meaningful impact on the world through multiple avenues. I have created a platform for knowledge sharing and dialogue by organizing dozens of events that bring together diverse stakeholders, fostering collaboration and understanding across sectors and communities. Additionally, I develop strategic frameworks for purpose-driven organizations, helping them to thrive and effectively achieve their goals. I dedicate myself to guiding and mentoring young professionals and entrepreneurs, empowering the next generation of leaders to drive positive change. By utilizing my extensive network, I connect individuals and organizations, amplifying their efforts and promoting value-driven initiatives. Through these efforts, I am contributing to sustainable development, social cohesion, and environmental protection, ultimately helping to shape a more inclusive and resilient world.

What drove you to work for a cause that believes in the greater good?

My diverse lineage and heritage, stretching from India in the East to the UK in the West, provide me with a profound understanding of what unites us as human beings. This multicultural background fosters a deep appreciation for respect, tolerance, and the importance of meaningful dialogue. My passion for nature and wildlife fuels my commitment to creating a greener tomorrow and safeguarding our precious environments. Additionally, my love for beauty inspires me to capture compelling photographs that serve as powerful messages, inspiring others to value and protect the natural world.